The Peregrine Falcon is found worldwide except for New Zealand. Different sub-species are recognised in different regions. It is the fastest member of the animal kingdom, reaching over 325 km/h during its high speed dives! Its diet consists almost exclusively of medium-sized birds caught in the air, and occasionally small mammals, small reptiles or insects.

They mate for life and nest in a scrape, normally on cliff edges or on tall human-made structures, such as power stations and buildings. The 2 to 3 eggs are white to buff with red or brown markings. Females are larger than males.

Size: 36 - 47 cm

Illustration: Mark Trinham.